Tree Felling in St. Mary's Churchyard

During the summer of 2011, a heavy bough broke away from the large beech tree in the churchyard of St. Mary's. Fortunately it fell away from Church Cottages and into the churchyard without causing damage. However, the incident prompted a professional assessment.

2011-07-04•churchnature2011community

A Professional Assessment

Tree surgeons working on the beech tree

Tree felling in St. Mary's churchyard, July 2011

Photo Peter Fynn

The PCC arranged for a tree surgeon to inspect the beech and his verdict was that severe rot had set in where the three main trunks met. Further collapse was possible in the future, so a decision was made to cut the tree down to a safe size.

Work started on 4th July, 2011 and was completed shortly after. The decision balanced the loss of a venerable village landmark with the safety of church visitors and residents of Church Cottages.

Progress of the tree felling work

Tree felling in St. Mary's churchyard, July 2011

Photo Peter Fynn